V FOR VICTORY

Waikato Times, Volume 106, Issue 22606, 10 May 1945, Page 6

V FOR VICTORY

HAMILTON MAN’S POEM The verses “WV ” were written as a challenge during the dangerous days of the war period. These verses, written by a New Zealander now a resident of Hamilton, Mr H. B. Reid, were the subject of appreciative comment by “ Colonel Brittan,” the originator of the “ V ” sign, in a message from the 8.8. C., London, and later conveyed to New Zealand by the New Zealand High Commissioner. Men of the New Zealand forces are familiar with the copy hanging on the notice board at Anzac House, New York, and the publishers received advice from Australia that the Prime Minister of Australia (Mr Curtin) had a copy hung above his desk in his office in Canberra during the darkest days of the war period. Flash a WV for Victory Through land, and sea, and sky, Drop a blood-red V for Victory Where the lurking U-boats lie. Send a WV for Victory Where the convoys split the spray, Hear the guns boom V for Victory Where the tyrant holds his sway. Spread a flag marked V for Victory On the soldier’s rough-hewn grave, Fling a wreath marked V for Victory On the sailor’s hallowed wave. Flash a WV for Victory Where the airman cleaves the sky, See the stars shine V for Victory When he folds his wings—to die. When our hearts beat V for Victory Then the world will gain its own, And the bells will ring out Victory As the marching feet turn home. —Harry B. Reid.